Disabled Student in Gresik Bullied, Back Burned with Iron by Senior

A disabled student, identified by the initials D (17), has become a victim of violence within an Islamic boarding school environment in the Dukun District, Gresik. The victim’s back and hands were allegedly burned with an iron by a senior student, resulting in burn wounds.

The Gresik Regency Office for Family Planning, Women’s Empowerment, and Child Protection (KBPPPA), through the Technical Service Unit for the Protection of Women and Children (UPTD PPA), is providing assistance to the victim. The Head of the Gresik KBPPPA, Dr Titik Ernawati, stated that her office has conducted an assessment, and the victim admitted to experiencing repeated unpleasant treatment.

“Officers conducted an initial assessment to obtain information regarding the child’s condition, service needs, and to ensure the fulfilment of the victim’s rights in accordance with child protection principles,” said Titik, as reported on Monday (28/09/2026).

“At present, the victim has chosen to live with their family. The victim is also reported to be unwilling to return to the boarding school environment as they still feel fearful and uncomfortable,” she added.

Titik further noted that the office continues to monitor the victim’s psychological condition. The assessment results from the UPTD PPA indicate that the victim requires psychosocial support to assist in the recovery process.

“Furthermore, the family hopes that the victim can continue their education, even if they do not return to live at the boarding school,” she said.

The victim’s ordeal went viral on social media, featuring posts showing photos of the student battered by bullying and physical abuse by a senior. The circulating posts show the victim suffering from burn wounds on their back and hands.